Increasing Sperm Motility

September 19, 2012

There are many factors that correlate with sperm health. The semen men release per ejaculation should have fifteen million sperm per milliliter or more for optimal fertility. The sperm should also have the healthiest shape, or their propulsion will be affected. Moreover, peak fertility is difficult to achieve if less than forty percent of sperm are barely moving. Sperm motility refers to sperm’s ability to swim and propel themselves towards the ova, through the cervix, uterus, and fallopian tubes. Sperm have a difficult journey, so to speak, and their ability to cross the threshold is a huge determining factor in successful insemination.

According to experts, men with fertility problems should always consult their physicians to discover the root cause behind their infertility. Problems in sperm motility itself can have multiple causes, or men could have multiple fertility problems. In some cases, sperm motility problems are genetic, and baring major scientific advances in gene therapy, the problem may be difficult to treat. Other times, sperm motility problems can be hormonal, and doctors can prescribe hormone replacement therapies and other medications to correct the chemical imbalance.

Sometimes, improving sperm motility is a matter of making simple lifestyle changes, which will promote health in other areas as well. It is important to maintain a healthy weight, since overweight and underweight men can both experience problems with fertility, and sperm motility in particular. Certain sexually transmitted infections, such as gonorrhea, can affect fertility, and practicing safer sex can guard against them. Other unhealthy habits to avoid include smoking, drinking too much alcohol, and excessive use of other drugs. Recommended reading.

Dietary changes can also improve sperm performance, including sperm motility. Diets rich in fruits and vegetables, and the subsequently high levels of antioxidants, can yield noticeable results for some men. Some types of malnutrition can contribute directly to infertility and problems with sperm motility. Studies have shown correlations between dietary deficiencies in carnitine and sperm motility problems. The protein carnitine and its building block amino acids lysine and methionine are thought to be involved in the metabolizing of fatty acids for energy, such as the energy needed for sperm motility. The highest natural sources of carnitine are red meats, like steak, ground beef, bacon, and pork. Vegetarians could get carnitine from whole avocados, peanut butter, eggs, whole wheat bread, tempeh, whole milk, macaroni, asparagus, American cheese, cottage cheese, cooked rice, and even ice cream. It is difficult to get enough carnitine from supplements alone.

Stress management is an oft-cited source of health problems all throughout the body, and fertility is no exception. Stress can affect hormone balance, including reproductive hormones. Also, stress can affect sexual desire and sexual performance, thus affecting fertility across the board. Increasing physical activity can manage stress, help achieve or maintain a healthy weight, and help address problems with sperm directly. Adopting a healthier lifestyle is a good goal for anyone, and can have significant positive results for all sorts of health problems. Fertility and the performance of sperm is no exception.